For most working Americans, the bathroom is just a space to prepare for hectic work days. But for some it’s also a place to pamper, unwind and detach from the non-stop busy-ness of life. Whether it’s a quiet morning with music and a hot cup of tea to help you get ready for the day or a long bath to wind down after work, this space can help clear the head and settle you into a relaxing mindset. The right color scheme can help create that soothing, tranquil bathroom space.

“For our interior painting clients, some might be renovating a bathroom with the thinking that it should be a quiet retreat. The right color can really help set that mood,” said Joe Miller, co-owner of Arizona Painting Company, the state’s largest painting contractor.

For a relaxing bathroom space, consider the following tips.

Incorporating nature

Different color shades, lighting and fixtures can influence the mood of a bathroom. Bright, vibrant colors are more tropical; muted colors and pastels are considered natural; and deeper, burnt colors are seen as intense.

Nature colors like soft greens, tans and earth tones are popular in bathrooms. Experts also encourage homeowners to think of how cabinets and fixtures complement or appropriately contrast with these color choices as well. For example, espresso cabinets can be the perfect accent for lighter green walls. An earthy, stone sink basin could be a great accent for a nature-inspired color scheme. Plants can also bring the outside in. Pines or hanging terrariums, or even a little birch or driftwood, can bring another focal point to the space.

In addition, the colors of nature work well with natural sunlight to add warmth. A large window can bring a subtle glow to the morning routine.

“Before painting, I always tell people to see the color in the morning, night and during the day. That natural light can have an effect on what you really see, and different lighting can pull out undertones you may not know are there at other times of day,” Miller added.

Seaside relaxation, lavender

Seafoam blue is a color that can be a perfect counterpoint to a large bathtub, especially if the tub is situated beneath a skylight. A homeowner could add to the seaside vibe other accents like a wicker chair to read for those extra few minutes of privacy. A vase of seashells or water lilies can be a focal point to build this space around, too.

If a bathroom has larger, more decadent furnishings, a soft pastel lavender often contrasts well. A dark copper tub or sink basin can offer a strong metallic contrast to lavender as well.

“Larger bathroom spaces can certainly be a retreat for homeowners. The right colors to accent furniture can bring a perfect soothing touch,” Miller added.

Little details

Beyond paint, cabinets and sinks, some homeowners find big impact in small details. They may consider replacing old linens and towels with new ones. A new plush rug to step onto when climbing out of the tub, robe hooks and new towel racks add new touches to the space.

And for those who do not have windows in the bathroom, try framed pictures that match the desired ambiance of the space. Mirrors are another great way to make a small bathroom space seem open and airy.